These Cream Cheese Pinwheels are super easy and fun to make! They are packed with creamy filling and rolled up in a tasty tortilla.
Perfect for parties or a quick snack! I love how I can customize them with my favorite veggies. Plus, they’re always a hit with friends and family! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor, or try reduced-fat if you’re looking for a lighter option. I find it spreads easier when it’s at room temperature.
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are the classic choice for pinwheels, adding a nice soft texture. You can swap for whole wheat tortillas or even spinach or tomato-flavored ones for extra color and nutrition.
Fillings: Shredded cheddar adds a nice flavor, but you can change it up! Consider using spicy pepper jack for a kick or cream cheese flavored with herbs instead. Smoked salmon is a fancy option, but feel free to skip it if it’s not for you!
Bacon: Optional, but it adds great crunch and flavor. You can replace bacon with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or simply leave it out for a lighter snack. Any ingredient you prefer can work here!
How Can I Make Sure My Pinwheels Are Easy to Slice?
One trick to making clean cuts is to chill the rolled pinwheels before slicing them. Here’s how to do it:
- Wrap the rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating.
- Chill for at least 1 hour to let them firm up. If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes can work too!
- Use a sharp knife to slice; a serrated knife works great if you have one. Cut about 1-inch thick pieces for nice, bite-sized pinwheels!
- Clean the knife between cuts if it gets messy, ensuring you get pretty edges on each slice.
Enjoy making your pinwheels neat and delicious with these tips!
Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or smoked salmon (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions or chives, finely chopped
- 4 large flour tortillas or flatbread
- 2-3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional hour to chill in the refrigerator. All in all, you can have these delicious pinwheels ready in just over an hour—perfect for gathering or a snack on the go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar or smoked salmon if you’re using it. Add in the chopped parsley and green onions or chives. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
2. Spread the Mixture:
Take a large flour tortilla or flatbread and lay it flat on a clean surface. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread a generous, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the entire tortilla. Make sure to cover it well!
3. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using bacon, sprinkle the crumbled pieces evenly over the cream cheese layer. This adds a delightful crunch to your pinwheels!
4. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Make sure to roll it up as evenly as you can. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and cream cheese filling until everything is rolled up.
5. Chill the Rolls:
Wrap each rolled log in plastic wrap. This keeps the shape nice and makes slicing easier later. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Slice the Pinwheels:
After the logs have chilled, take them out of the refrigerator and unwrap them. Use a sharp knife to slice the logs into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange them beautifully on a serving platter!
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some additional chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch. Serve these creamy, savory pinwheels as an appetizer or snack and enjoy the compliments!
These Cream Cheese Pinwheels are not only delicious but also super versatile—feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese! It will still work well in this recipe, but be aware that the texture might be slightly different—less creamy and rich.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and smoked salmon. You can add extra veggies like sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even spinach for added flavor and crunch.
How Do I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a great snack later! Just slice them again if needed before serving.
Can I Freeze These Pinwheels?
Yes, you can freeze the rolled pinwheels before slicing! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing and serving.
